Oakland Raiders

1. General manager Reggie McKenzie emphasized to Bryan Fischer of College Football 24/7 last week that there is no pressure to rush Derek Carr. The second-round quarterback has already passedMatt McGloin on the depth chart after an impressive spring. NFL Media's Albert Breer noted internal belief at Raiders headquarters that Carr will actually push Matt Schaubfor the starting job this summer.

2. Oakland's roster was so barren prior to the 2014 NFL Draft that coach Dennis Allen struggled to name a young star who could legitimately be considered a nucleus player. Now that No. 5 overall pick Khalil Mack has joined Sio Moore, the Raiders boast a pair of intriguing young linebackers. It will be interesting to see how Allen moves Mack around in training camp. The early signs are promising.

2. Rivers succeeded in 2013 despite the absence of a deep threat opposite Keenan Allen. Can Malcom Floyd return to that role after suffering a career-threatening neck injury last September? He looked like his old self in offseason practices, which bodes well for his chances of nudging Vincent Brown into the No. 4 receiver role.

3. The secondary was a season-long headache for John Pagano's defense last season, as the cornerbacks lacked speed and were too often overmatched in coverage. General manager Tom Telesco addressed the issue by drafting Jason Verrett in the first round and signing 2013 Pro Bowl selection Brandon Flowers. The coaching staff is also high on young safety Jahleel Addae and cornerback Steve Williams. This defensive backfield could be one of the most improved units in the division.